Lillebælt Fishing by Destination Lillebaelt

LILLEBÆLT FISHING FISHING AND FISHING SPOTS IN LILLEBÆLT

Nørre Aaby

Gamborg

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 105

Publisher

Destination Lillebælt

Project manager

Anders Johansen

Editorial team

Erik Videriksen, Fredericia Sportsfiskerforening (fishing club), Torben Lindholst, Kolding Sportsfiskerforening (fishing club), Klaus Hansen, Gl. Aalbo Camping, Bo Krath, Røjle Klint Camping, Martin Lerkenfeldt Jensen, Sea Trout Fyn, Hans Christian Nielsen – Vestfyns MarineCenter, Omar Gade, Tanja Skinbjerg Esbjerg and Peter Saabye Simonsen.

Photographs

Aerial photography

Terkel Christensen: p. 1, 3, 4, 5, 9–12, 14, 16, 20, 42, 43. Martin Lerkenfeld Jensen: p. 1, 3, 44. Poul Madsen: p. 42. Gordon P. Henriksen: p. 1, 13, 14, 19, 42. Joe Christensen: p. 15. Ole Olsen: p. 3. Colourbox stock photos: p. 3, 17, 20.

Indslev Viby

Svinø

Rolund

Ronæs

Gadstrup

Fønsskov

COASTAL FISHING – 09

Mosegård Ronæs

TROLLING – 16 2

Udby Føns

4 6 10

Fishing spots 1–9: Kolding Municipality FOT data from the Danish Geodata Agency data and Danish municipalities, March 2014. Fishing spots 10–24: Fredericia Municipality FOT data from the Danish Geodata Agency data and Danish municipalities, February 2014. Fishing spots 100-114: Ortofoto May 2013, copyright Middelfart Municipality.

Føns Vig 102

2.000

Printed by

Vester Kopi, Fredericia 2016

Map material

The map material was produced by Compukort using data from the Danish Geodata Agency, Map 10

ISBN

978-87-996933-5-1

PIERS AND HARBOURS – 17

Føns Vang

103 Sparretorn

Balslev

1st edition Print run

Bringvad

Elles

Ålehoved

Ørslev

Rud

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS FOR ANGLERS – 21

SEA FISHING – 18

FISHING6 SPOTS, LEGEND – 22 10

Ørslev Tybrind

Bjerge

Tybrind 3

NATURE AROUND LILLEBÆLT – 05

Vig

101

DINGHY FISHING – 20

Hygind Eskør

PRACTICAL INFORMATION – 43 Håre

Wedellsborg Hoved Wedellsborg

Husby

Sælhage

Sønder Åby 2 4 6 10

1:70.000

RULES AND FRAMEWORKS – 06 2

Tanderup

100

3 km

YOUNG ANGLERS – 42

LILLEBÆLT THROUGH THE SEASONS – 07

Emtekær

WELCOME TO LILLEBÆLT

THE NATURE AROUND LILLEBÆLT

You can go fishing in Lillebælt 365 days a year, because you can always find shelter from the wind along the coasts and out on the water. At the same time, there are lots of different types of fishing spots close together along the coasts or out on Lillebælt. You can fish for sea trout, cod and flatfish all year round, and seasonally also for mackerel, garfish and herring. Other bonus fish include pollack, turbot and grey mullet. Have a look at the maps and you will see the concentration of fishing spots.

Lillebælt boasts Fredericia, Kolding and Middelfart as well as various fishing hamlets, with several departure points for excursion boats to take you out onto Lillebælt if you fancy fishing from a boat. Otherwise, you can choose to rent a dinghy or trolling boat, or launch your own dinghy, boat or sea kayak from a selection of ramps around the area. Or you can fish from the harbours, with Fredericia and Middelfart ranked highly for garfish and mackerel in their seasons. There are plenty of options, too, if you want to go fishing in trout lakes.

The nature around Lillebælt is generally robust, and most places can take some wear and tear. However, there are a few legal requirements that you must abide by while enjoying the Great Outdoors, and while fishing. It is always your personal responsibility to be aware of the countryside code and fishing rules.

Lillebælt connects the Baltic Sea with Kattegat, where large volumes of salt water from Kattegat flow into the Baltic, with brackish water being returned from the Baltic. These large amounts of water are transported through the narrow waters of Lillebælt, so they are deep, with strong currents. The deepest internal waters of Denmark are found here, with a maximum depth, at Marens Hul, of 80 m. The deep waters flow very close to land in a number of places – notably in the upper part of Lillebælt from Strib Fyr (lighthouse) past the Lillebælt bridges and down to the islands of Fænø and Fænø Kalv.

This fishing guide has been written by local anglers from the Lillebælt area who know what they are talking about and are only too happy to help you as you go fishing. You can read more about fishing spots, the fish and fishing in the guide. If you need addresses for accommodation, eateries, fishing tackle stores, fishing guides or other tourist information, visit www.lillebaelt.dk

The deep waters offer excellent scope to fish for species that you would normally only catch from a boat. Besides, other species of fish – notably sea trout and garfish – are attracted by Kolding Fjord, Gamborg Fjord, Baaring Vig, Føns Vig and many of the bays in the area, with their shallower waters, reefs and reduced currents.

To find out more, visit the Danish Nature Agency website www.naturstyrelsen.dk

§ You should always keep well away from private residences and gardens. § You must respect sensitive areas for birds and wildlife reserves. Avoid landing on uninhabited islands and islets between 1 March and 15 July inclusive. For more information, visit www.naturstyrelsen.dk § Almost all stretches of the Danish coastline are accessible at any time of the day or night, and you may pass through on foot. § On private beaches, you must remain at least 50 m from the nearest inhabited building if you want to stop or go bathing. § You must pull your boat up onto the beach without use of a motor. § You may not put up a tent or tarpaulin on the beach.

Enjoy being close to nature, other anglers and nature lovers – and treat Lillebælt with respect, just as we do. Tight lines!

§ Unless the signage says otherwise, you may ramble along paths and planned routes from open land and in woodlands. § You may pass through private woodlands of more than 5 hectares on paths and roads from 6 am until sunset.

ulations les and reg ru e th y b e ent; to abid Remember g the natural environm n yi jo en . e er il wh long p it to last this will hel

§ You may pass through public woodlands on foot at any time of the day or night if there are no fences, but cyclists must keep to roads and paths only. § You must always tidy up after yourself. § The use of fishing tackle containing lead is prohibited. § Foul-hooking any type of fish is not permitted.

RULES AND FRAMEWORKS FOR FISHING FISHING LICENCE

CONSERVATION ZONES

Everyone aged between 18 and 65 must buy a valid fishing licence in order to fish in fresh or salt water, except for fishing in trout lakes/Put & Take. You can purchase a fishing licence from a post office, tourist information office, many campsites, excursion boats and at www.fisketegn.dk The money raised from the purchase of fishing licences is spent on fish care and research. You can buy a fishing licence that is valid for a year, a week or a day. The fishing licence is yours personally, i.e. it is not transferable to a friend or family member. Fishing without a fishing licence is a criminal offence.

Wherever rivers, brooks and streams run into the sea or a fjord, there are conservation zones; some outlets are conservation zones all year round, while others are only conservation zones for part of the year. The maps in this guide show the conservation zones. If you are in any doubt, don’t fish in the conservation zone. The conservation zone is 500 m (see illustration). Any and all kinds of fishing are unlawful within the conservation zone.

Sea trout

Cod

Flatfish

Garfish

February is similar to January. Herring now appear in shoals on the seabed. The flatfish are spawning; try with pieces of herring. Lumpfish and viviparous eelpout seek shallower waters to spawn in.

March

March is the month for flatfish. They can be found on the seabed, and after spawning they are hungry. If they lack body flesh, put them back. Cod disperse and can be difficult to find.

April

In April, flatfish and small cod seek shallower waters and can be found on inclines. Spring-spawning herring are spawning now. Towards the end of April, garfish may appear.

May

May is the month for garfish. They arrive in large shoals and large numbers can be caught. Exercise moderation. Pollack may start to appear; try evening fishing. Casting for small cod, and there is good fishing for flatfish. Turbot can be found in shallower waters than you might expect.

June

June can offer many different species. Garfish are still around. Large cod in deeper waters; smaller cod in shallower waters. But the exception proves the rule. Try casting for cod. Flatfish are active now and seek shallower waters for the abundant food available there.

Conservation period Fish in parr colours 16 November to 15 January (*)

July

In July, mini-tuna come to Lillebælt in search of brisling and sandeel. Shoals of mackerel arrive. Try with a casting rod, small decoy and various dropper flies, such as mackerel flies. The cod are more dispersed and have to be found.

Fish in parr colours 16 November to 15 January (*)

August

August is the month for mackerel. A few small cod in the shallows. If the water is warm, try various depths and inclines. Cod can be a bit difficult to find. Autumn herring may arrive.

Female plaice 15 January to 30 April

September In September, garfish migrate away from Lillebælt. You will sometimes come across mackerel. The autumn herring move towards their spawning grounds, often with predatory fish in hot pursuit – notably cod, but also trout and pollack.

500 m

February

MINIMUM SIZES AND CONSERVATION

m 500

500 m

it ervation zones, vis ation about cons an electronic overview here. For more inform d k You will also fin www.lillebaelt.d

Female flounder 1 February to 30 April

Protected Pregnant viviparous eelpouts 15 September to 31 January

(*) It is OK to take home fish over the measurement with loose, silvery scales, whereas fish that are not completely silvery or which have fixed scales must be put back.

Legend

In January, fish in deep waters for cod ready to spawn. The temperature is 3–6 degrees at the seabed. No fish in the shallows. There may be a few flatfish.

MINIMUM SIZES AND CONSERVATION

Minimum size in cm 40 cm 25 cm 40 cm 30 cm 30 cm 25 cm 33 cm 23 cm 30 cm 24 cm 38 cm 40 cm 23 cm

The calendar shows what kind of fish you can usually catch in Lillebælt over a year.

January

Minimum sizes have been established by law for the following species of fish. Measure the length of the fish from the tip of its tail to the tip of its nose. Fish below the minimum size must always be put back in the water, regardless of whether they are dead, dying or alive. It is illegal to keep or transport any fish below the minimum size.

Type Sea trout Common dab Salmon Pollack Turbot Plaice Pollack Flounder Brill Sole Cod Eel Viviparous eelpout

LILLEBÆLT THROUGH THE SEASONS

October

October is normally a good month for herring. Shoals of herring can be found in deeper waters, but with predatory fish around them. Flatfish are still in the shallows.

November

In November, the water temperature decreases and prey quantities diminish. Flatfish and cod are increasingly to be found in deeper waters. Try casting for cod.

December

The December chill sends the fish out into deep waters, where you can find New Year cod by using a decoy, a jig or forceful casting. The first spawning cod gather. Flatfish can be found, sometimes with good catches, even in deeper waters.

Mackerel

Herring

FISHING TACKLE AND EQUIPMENT Suggested equipment for a first-time angler in Lillebælt Fishing tackle COASTAL AND PIER FISHING Sea trout, spin

Spinning rod, 8–10' Casting weight 5–30 g Fixed-spool reel with at least 150 m of 0.25 mm nylon fishing line or 0.12–0.15 mm of braided fishing line. Coastal spinning spoon, coastal wobblers 5–25 g Bombarda float, intermediate or floating, 20–30 g

Waders, warm clothing, good wading jacket, coastal net, Polaroid sunglasses.

Fly-fishing rod, 9–10' AFTM 6–8 Corrosion-resistant fly reel with at least 100 m of backing. Floating or intermediate weight-forward (WF) line or shooting head. Coastal flies, size 4–10 Tapered leader, 2.5–5 m Short in a headwind and long in calm weather. Nylon or fluorocarbon Thickness at tip: 0.20–0.28 mm

Stripping basket.

Garfish

As for sea trout; possibly a lighter spoon, 5–15 g

As for sea trout.

Mackerel

As for sea trout; possibly a slightly stronger rod, decoy and spoon, 25–50 g from piers and harbours. Various mackerel leaders.

Waders are not essential; warm clothing, a cool cloth or a bucket of ice for storing fish in hot weather.

Herring

As for mackerel; various herring leaders.

Cod, coastal

Spinning rod, 9–10' Casting weight 40–60 g Coastal spinning spoons, decoys, wobblers and jigs 20–40 g Nylon fishing line 0.30 mm or braided fishing line 0.17–0.19 mm Seabed tackle fishing rod 10–11' Casting weight 30–100 g Weights and leader 30–80 g

Flatfish, coastal

As for spinning for cod: seabed tackle and weights 30–50 g

Grey mullet

As for sea trout; ideally lighter tackle and thinner lines Lime-green flies, size 8–12

Sea trout, fly

SEA FISHING Casting and seabed tackle fishing

Decoy fishing

Other equipment

Spinning rod, 8-9' Casting weight 30–100 g Multiplier reel or strong spinning reel. Nylon fishing line 200 m 0.45 mm or 200 m 0.17–0.22 mm braided fishing line. Decoys, jigs 20–100 g, dropper fly or rubber creatures Leader for herring, mackerel, garfish, flatfish. Sea rod 6–8', IGFA 12–20 Multiplier reel IGFA 12–20 with braided fishing line 0.22–0.28 mm Decoys, jigs 50–300 g plus 2–3 @ 500 g Dropper flies, rubber creatures, squid, etc. Lead mounted with a minimum of 0.70 mm nylon fishing line.

Warm clothing and footwear with slip-proof soles for wet decks Round rod 30 cm for winding the braided fishing line around for seabed takes. All-in-one fishing suit recommended, especially during the winter months.

COASTAL FISHING You will find particularly varied coastal fishing along Lillebælt and the adjacent inlets, coves and bays. From flat coves with 1–3 m of water to Lillebælt’s coasts with deep water hugging the land, where you can cast your line across 15–30 m of water. This makes for varied fishing and opportunities to go fishing all year round. You can always find a sheltered spot somewhere by Lillebælt, whatever the weather. The most sought-after fish along the coasts is the sea trout. Coastal fishing for sea trout was originally developed in Denmark, and Lillebælt has been a popular body of water for decades. Garfish, mackerel, flatfish, herring and cod are fun to catch, too. They allow for sociable fishing. For instance, take the kids along in May, when schools of garfish can be found in Lillebælt. Try pier fishing in Middelfart or Fredericia harbour and watch their little faces as they land their first garfish! Or bring along a few seabed tackle fishing rods and relax on the beach while you wait for the flatfish or cod to take.

SEA TROUT Once you have caught a large, plump, silvery sea trout from the coast, you will never forget the experience. Sea trout hatch in fresh water and remain there for approximately two years. Then they swim out to sea, where they grow from 20–25 cm to 40–50 cm over a period of 1–2 years. After 1–3 years in salt water, in the summer/autumn, they head back to the stream or river of origin to spawn. Some fish remain in salt water and are known as “finnocks” or “alternate spawners”. After spawning, the rest migrate back out to sea in December and January, but not all of them survive spawning. From April–June, virtually all the adult fish are on the coast. Most sea trout weigh 1–1.5 kg. A fish weighing 4–5 kg is a trophy fish; you need a combination of luck and skill to hook one of these – and, especially, to land it. The largest sea trout in Denmark are also among the largest in the world, i.e. up to 15 kg. Herring, brisling and sandeel schools migrate to the deep water of Lillebælt and its strong currents, with the porpoises and very large sea trout in hot pursuit.

Bring a knife to kill and clean the fish. Note that it is illegal to transport or carry a knife with a blade longer than 7 cm – unless you are a hunter or an angler on your way to or from Be sure to have the right tackle with you when you go fishing waters. For example, you must not leave the knife in fishing. For details, see the tackle chart on page 8. the car while you pop in to the grocer’s. As well as a knife, you should have a ruler marked in centimetres to ensure that your fish are not undersized. A landing net is good to have, especially if you are wading out to fish. Invest in a decent, salt-water resistant net, which can be purchased reasonably cheaply in fishing tackle stores. You will need a pair of Polaroid ælt, and ve in Lilleb is guide sunglasses for sunny days. They also sitively thri Th po d. t un ou tr ro a Se em all year th h sea trout. tc protect your eyes – e.g. during flya ca k n you ca how to hoo on ps ti ul fishing, if anything should go wrong. offers usef 9

SEASONS AND FISHING WEATHER You can catch sea trout on the coast all year round. However, as the descriptions of the fishing spots show, some spots are better at certain times of the year. Generally speaking, Lillebælt works best around high tide and, especially, at the changeover from high tide to low tide. In winter, the sea trout are most active in the middle of the day. You can catch them at any time, but a shallow cove or bay – preferably with a dark seabed – that gets some warmth from the sun can yield very good fishing. Make no mistake: on a day like that, a muddy seabed and shallow waters can be 1–3oC warmer than open waters. This matters quite a lot to sea trout, as they function best at 5–12oC. Try using small flies and small spoons or wobblers. The months from March to May are the peak fishing season. Sea trout need to replenish their reserves after spawning and meagre rations during the winter. More prey emerge as the water temperature rises. Prey can be found just about anywhere, but in March more in the inlets, coves and bays, though heading out to the open coast in April and May. You can catch them all day long but, as June approaches, early morning or evening will often be best. Night-time fishing starts in May. From June to August, the fish are on top form, but they can be

In winter, you will need to go out in the middle of the day, which is when the sea trout are most active.

choosy. Focus your fishing on late evenings, nights and early mornings. You could seek out promontories and reefs with a current and deep waters and fish all day long, but fishing in the dark is best, especially with a black fly or lure, fishing at the surface. Night-time fishing in Lillebælt produces the largest sea trout of any time of the year. Autumn is another peak season, with some of the sea trout changing colour from silver with loose scales to golden shades with fixed scales. They are taking on their spawning colours. They can be very selective in the autumn, challenging a whole box of spoons or flies and, indeed, the angler’s patience. Often, a small, discreet fly will be taken, while on other days, a long spoon being spun in very fast or a wobbler or copper-coloured spoon with red, orange and yellow tones may do the trick. Vary your fishing throughout the year, but especially in the autumn.

SPIN FISHING Spin fishing is particularly effective for covering long stretches of coastline in the early spring: March–April. The colours of spoons and wobblers are of greater interest to anglers than to the fish, but subdued colours are generally best for a catch. The smallest spoons are usually used in calm, clear weather, and in tranquil waters, while large spoons and wobblers are used in more severe weather and in choppy conditions. Silver/green

Sea trout can be very picky in the autumn, so remember to vary your fishing.

If you go night fishing in Lillebælt, you will catch the biggest sea trout of any time of the year.

y to rise early or sta er, you will have mm su to y wa . ut es As spring giv hooking a sea tro your chances of up late to boost

and silver/blue are often used in spring, while silver/red/orange or copper/red/orange will often catch fish in the autumn. Completely white spoons catch fish all year round, but can be especially good in winter combined with small spoons or flies in fiery colours, usually fluorescent orange, red or pink. The exception proves the rule. If no one else is catching anything using silvery spoons, try something else. Some people use them; others do not. A dropper fly tied to a leader approximately 30–40 cm ahead of the spoon can be a good move; used correctly, the fly will more or less double your catches, considered over a full year. On some days, the fly will take the majority of the fish, whereas the spoon may reign supreme on other days. Sea trout can be fished almost anywhere. For this guide, we have selected some good spots for you, and all these spots produce a lot of catches every year. You will typically cover the coast by casting and reeling in. Walk a few metres and repeat the cast, and reel in, and so on. Keep moving. Cover a decent

Anglers bother more about the colour of the spoon than fish do.

amount of water. If you get a take, stay in the area, because there will often be more fish in the same spot. Sea trout move along the coast, so you have to move to find them. Vary your reeling in so that the spoon is reeled in alternately fast and slow. Slower in winter. Faster in summer. But the exception proves the rule. The only valid rule is that the spoon or the fly in the water is what catches the fish.

FLY FISHING You should be able to cast at least 18–20 m – preferably further. If you can do that, you are well on your way. Fish the fly by taking in 20–40 cm of line. Wait. Bring the line in. Pause, and so on. In between, the fly should be moving at quite some speed. Hold the rod under your arm and bring the line in very swiftly. Experiment, and vary how you bring it in. It is important to keep moving and cover the coast. You can go fly fishing at any time of the year, but it is particularly effective in summer, autumn and winter. Different flies are fine, especially shrimp flies in sandy shades, but take a few black, white and hot colours with you. The pink “Pattegris” (“sucking pig”) has become a classic in a few short years, but the “Kobberbasse” (“Copper Bully”), Magnus, Red Tag Palmer, Flash 9 and Honey Shrimp catch lots of sea trout. A “Glimmerreje” (glitter shrimp) in early spring is a reliable fly.

There are lots of different flies, so you can feel your way. “Pattegrisen” (the sucking pig) (left) is a very popular fly.

FISHING WITH A BULDO FLOAT/ BOMBARDA FLOAT Use your spinning rod. Attach a BULDO float or Bombarda float to the line. Approximately 3–4 m from the float, tie a fly on a 0.25 mm nylon or fluorocarbon line. Cast your line. Tighten the line. Spin the reel once. Count to 3. Spin the reel once. Count to 5, etc. On some days, it will not take as long, and on other days, the fish will prefer even, slow spinning in. If you have never caught a sea trout, BULDO/Bombarda fishing is probably your quickest route to catching one. You could try setting a hook with herring fillet, a couple of juicy worms or a fresh shrimp instead of the fly, if you see sea trout refusing to take.

GARFISH In May, schools of garfish enter Lillebælt, where they remain until September. The fishing is at its best in May and June, when several garfish can be caught on some days. You can use your sea trout spinning or fly tackle, but lighter tackle is the most fun, as a large garfish weighs 0.7–1 kg. Use slender spoons and peel off the treble hook. Instead, attach a silk thread or a 4–6 cm leader with a small treble hook at the rear spring ring of the spoon. You will hook more fish that way. It is OK to spin in quickly. Speed up and make some spin-stops. Speed up again. Spin-stop. It usually takes during the pause. On the other hand, tugging hard on the rod is really bad, as you could foul-hook the garfish. Most days, the garfish are indifferent to the colour

BULDO/Bombarda fishing is one of the quickest ways to catch sea trout.

of the spoon, as long as it reflects the light. They can sometimes be choosy. On such days, you have to experiment, and a silvery spoon with fiery green foil is often the answer. Another efficient and easy way to catch garfish is to use a BULDO® float or a Bombarda float. The length of line from float to bait is 1–1.5 m. Tie on a small, sharp treble hook (size 8–12) with a slice of herring fillet on it. If you are fishing from the pier or from a dinghy or boat, you could possibly use a slender float instead. Fly fishing for garfish is great for boosting the sports fisherman’s self-confidence. Try a small, glaring orange fly (size 10–12) or a small pipe fly with black wings and flash. Drag it fast through the water with isolated pauses. If possible, use a lightweight 9' AFTM 5 rod. Great fun! The fishing is best when the sun is shining and there is a light breeze. If the weather is good, there’s a good chance that you can get the family or a beginner to come fishing with you. Under these conditions, the fishing isn’t too bad either. This is fun fishing, and there are often many anglers on the beaches, piers, excursion boats and in dinghies. Fishing at Fredericia and Middelfart harbours often seems like a street party when the fishing is really rewarding. There are often many garfish. Don’t get carried away in a fishing frenzy. Remember that fishing is only your hobby, not something you depend on to make a living.

Many anglers are drawn to the beaches, piers, excursion boats and dinghies from May to September to fish for garfish.

MACKEREL

HERRING

Mackerel enter Lillebælt in the period from July to September. It’s best to fish from a boat or at a deep water harbour, e.g. Middelfart or Fredericia. You can catch mackerel from land if you concentrate on finding coasts where there is deep water very close to the shore. The mackerel is a very strong fighter. Pound for pound, it is probably the strongest salt-water fish in Northern waters. Most mackerel weigh 0.3–0.8 kg, although there are some larger fish. Fishing using a sea trout spinner rod is great sport.

You can fish for herring from harbours and piers in the area. Everyone can join in, and it's an activity the whole family can share. The fishing peaks in April and May, and again somewhat around September. Tackle as for sea trout or mackerel fishing (see the tackle chart on page 8).

You can catch mackerel at any time of day, especially from a boat. However, by tradition, mackerel fishing is best in the morning where the fish are sometimes seen to hunt at the surface. Quickly cast your line into the perimeter of the shoal. You could try using a spinning rod and a sliding float with a bunch of herring on a single hook as bait. Experiment a little to find the correct distance between float and hook. You will often find mackerel swimming at some depth.

If you want to improve your chances of catching a mackerel, you will need to fish in deep waters from a boat or from one of the harbours in the area.

Buy some tackle for herring from one of the local tackle stores and begin fishing on the pier. If you feel brave enough, try fixing a spoon to the end of the leader. Sea trout or cod are usually not far away when there are herring. If you use a spoon, hold the rod tight.

. ing herring ate in catch p ea. ci ar ti e ar p th n in mily ca d piers The whole fa from the harbours an em You’ll find th 13

COD Cod is often caught by coastal fishermen fishing for sea trout, especially at “the golden hour”, just before sunset. When you fish from the shore, the cod caught is typically small. If you want to bag a larger fish, it’s a good idea to take an excursion boat or sail a dinghy out into Lillebælt. If you fish from the coast, you will often find cod where there is deep water very close to land. As mentioned previously, the fishing is supreme during the hour before sunset. On summer evenings, you may sometimes be fortunate enough to find the cod at the surface, circling like trout. Usually you will find cod down at the bottom. Cast your line. Wait for the spoon to sink to the bottom and then start to reel in. Not too fast. Make pauses. Moderate reeling in.

You can also catch cod using seabed tackle with sand worms, herring or other fish fillets. This is seabed fishing. As your tackle can (inevitably) get entangled in seaweed, you need very heavy-duty tackle that can withstand being pulled free. Give the cod a run for its money. When it takes, bring your catch to the open water and away from the seaweed as soon as you can.

You can often find turbot and brill on a gravel bed. You can best catch these using fillets of herring, belly flesh from a dab or a long slice of flounder. Turbot and brill may often weigh as much as 4–5 kg and are very adept at “sucking” themselves firmly against the seabed. You need a strong rod to pull them free. Your reward? Heavenly tasting fish for dinner.

In the summer months and in warm, shallow bays and coves, you can sometimes find grey mullet. You may be able to lure them with a garish green fly or even just a piece of bread on a hook. They are very shy and difficult to outwit. Once on the hook, however, they are the ultimate fighters! Try your luck! Mullet tastes great barbecued.

FLATFISH

OTHER SPECIES

From time to time, Lillebælt offers excellent fishing for flounder, plaice and dab. You can catch flatfish using seabed tackle and sand worms or ragworms. You can buy sand worms and ragworms at several local fishing tackle stores. Depending on the current and the water depth, you will need a 30–60 g weight on the seabed tackle.

When fishing with seabed tackle, shorthorn sculpin, eel or viviparous eelpout will sometimes take. Note that minimum lengths apply and that eel and viviparous eelpout are protected species. Put fish back carefully. Even though the shorthorn sculpin is ugly, you should still treat it well. Take care with the dorsal fins. They are not venomous, but cuts can become infected. The tail end of a shorthorn sculpin is good to eat.

Finally, from time to time it is possible to find rainbow trout that have escaped from hatcheries. You may catch them when fishing for sea trout. They tend to jump more and are faster-moving than sea trout. A 3–4 kg rainbow trout that has escaped from a hatchery and survived 3–6 months in salt water will often pull the line off the fly wheel so you end up further down the backline. Enjoy the sport!

The cod will often bite as the spoon or decoy sinks to the bottom. To hook cod, hold your finger steady on the line to maintain contact with the line and decoy as they sink to the bottom. When the fish takes, immobilise the line with your finger on the rod, flip the bail over the spool and reel in. This takes practice. However, you will soon find the right rhythm and bag more cod.

Flatfish are prevalent on sand or gravel beds. Replace the worm or fish fillet at regular intervals. Bait has to be fresh. If you want to catch several fish, fish actively, i.e. cast your line. Leave the tackle to lie for a moment. Reel in a couple of metres of line. Pause. Reel in, etc. Flatfish are inquisitive. Bring along different types of seabed tackle. Some with beads, small metal spoons or spinning blades and some without. See what works best. A rod holder comes in handy.

Cod is one type of fish you can almost always find in Lillebælt.

Flatfish is a common fish. They are prevalent on sand or gravel beds.

Pollack and whiting will often bite on spoons or decoys when you are fishing for cod. Pollack is an extremely strong fish on a rod. It is present at certain periods, especially close to both Lillebælt bridges. If there are many small whiting, you are often best advised to stop fishing at the spot. Small whiting bite on everything and other fish do not get the chance.

Grey mullet is difficult to catch, but perhaps a fiery green fly will do the trick? Try your luck!

The deep waters of Lillebælt offer exce llent scope to fish species that you wo for uld normally only catch from a boat. 15

TROLLING Trolling for trout, garfish or cod can be very rewarding. Trolling means you sail in small boats and dinghies, dragging spoons and wobblers behind the boat. Using downriggers, clips and special clamps, you can fish at a specific depth with one rod and at another depth using another rod. To avoid wasting time, you will need a depth sounder and charts. The fishing is primarily about bright sea trout, and there are fish weighing 5–10 kg in Lillebælt. Now, more than before, there is a tendency for sea trout to be found close to the coast, parallel to inclines and reefs, and not so much out in deeper waters. Local anglers assume this is because of changes in releases of sea trout and the presence of more selfreplenishing stocks than before. Make no mistake, however. The big fish are to be caught in the schools of fish in deeper waters. There can be a lot of garfish from May. Sometimes too many, almost, so you can make do with one rod per person on the boat.

PIERS AND HARBOURS When the mackerel come, you can pursue them, but fishing for mackerel is yet to be thoroughly explored. Cod can also be caught with trolling tackle, provided that you fish deep. That also means being alert and not letting spoons and trolling cones descend to the seabed. Salmon will sometimes take the spoon in May. Trolling takes place over reefs, banks and parallel to underwater inclines. Effective trolling requires vigilance and experimenting with lure sizes, colours and types as well as speed. Typically, trolling speed is 2–2.5 knots for sea trout, preferably in the direction of the current. Slightly slower for cod. Fish in cold water slower than in warm water. It is worthwhile keeping an eye on water temperatures, which can vary from the seabed to the other subsurface water layers. Traditional trolling spoons such as North King, Dardevle or Apex spoons fish well. Wobblers are very effective for cod, because you usually sail a little slower with wobblers than with spoons.

Lillebælt has several harbours and piers that you can fish from and experience stimulating, rather sociable fishing with other anglers. This guide shows you where you can legally fish. Before you start fishing, always check if it is OK for you to fish from the harbour. You may catch any of the fish referred to under coastal fishing. Fishing from harbours and piers is a good place for children and beginners to start fishing. You can spin fish, use seabed tackle or use a float. Choose a fly or lure as referred to under coastal fishing. The section on coastal fishing shows you what time of year and what time of day you can catch the different species. Passing ships can have a positive effect on fishing as creatures from the sea bed and prey get stirred up. Try fishing for sea trout along the pier, using a float. A slender sliding float with fresh sandeel or a strip of herring can be very effective. In the garfish and mackerel seasons, you will typically catch more using floats and bait – usually a strip of herring – than with a spoon. You can spin-fish by casting your line from and along the piers. Allow the spoon to sink to the bottom if you are hunting for cod. By counting while the spoon or decoy sinks, you can count up to when you should start reeling in without getting tangled in seaweed and vegetation. Spin a few metres in and let the spoon sink down over the seabed. Reel in a few metres and repeat the pause, etc. Sea trout and garfish usually take high in the water, while mackerel are found from the middle depths upwards. See fishing under coastal fishing by species. As already mentioned under coastal fishing, seabed tackle fishing works. Try fishing close to the pier instead of casting your line a long way out. Cod and flatfish often hug the pier.

Hire a boat or dinghy and try trolling in Lillebælt. Trolling lets you fish at one depth with one rod and a different depth with another rod.

an even arc. Larger fish usually need a landing net with a long shaft. If you use leader, which can be 5–6 m 0.40–0.50 mm of line at the far end of the fishing line, it is easy to catch hold of the slagline to lift the fish. The leader will also protect your thinner line. Larger fish usually need a landing net with a long shaft. Bring a mat, too, so your rod will not be lying on asphalt or cement. No fish will be any the better for lying on warm asphalt or concrete. Bring a cloth that you can moisten, or, ideally, a bucket of ice, to keep the fish cool.

HARBOUR AND PIER SAFETY •

Preferably, wear footwear with slip-proof soles.

•

Before casting, it is a good idea to look behind you. Show consideration for others on the pier.

•

Keep a close eye on ships. Fishing line tangled around a boat’s propeller can prove expensive.

•

It is unwise to stand on the outermost edge of the pier in severe weather, or when conditions are very slippery.

•

Consider where you are fishing, and where you leave your car, bicycle and other belongings. Respect the people working in the harbour, and the signs displayed there.

When it is time to land the fish, small fish can be lifted up in 17

SEA FISHING Fishing in Lillebælt has improved in recent years. In addition to cod and flatfish, which have always been here, the number of fish and fish species has surged. There are more mackerel now than at any time for several decades, and pollack numbers have reached a level not seen for years. You can fish for them from your own boat or go out on excursion boats that sail from many local harbours. Trips can last from four hours to all day. It is also possible to hire an entire boat, so you can work with the skipper to plan your very own trip. You can contact the excursion boat owners to find out what to fish for and what tackle will work best, as well as information about board and lodging, etc. View the excursion boats at www.lillebaelt.dk or scan the QR code.

FISH SPECIES Over the years, Lillebælt has been best known for fishing for cod, herring, flatfish and garfish. There are other species in Lillebælt, however, that can be fun to fish for during the year. Here is a quick overview of the species and lures or flies that work:

Fishing from a boat can mean casting, fishing with decoys or fishing with bait. You can refer to the tackle chart on page 8, but here we will be looking in more detail at the actual fishing. Local anglers mostly use decoys or jigs with dropper flies, but at time bait such as sand worm, lugworm, herring fillets and garfish fillets can perform better than anything else. You should also try mussels and squid. Lillebælt has a good stock of small ten-tentacled squid, and many species of fish will make a beeline for those.

COD

MACKEREL

Usually quite a lot of small cod, but also fish up to 8–10 kg. Use decoys and jigs or weights that sink rapidly and can remain near the seabed, where the cod live. The current in Lillebælt can be strong. This is a challenge for anglers. With that in mind, jigs, decoys and dropper flies should be slender. Light lures or flies are more lifelike and catch the most fish. Slender decoys travel through the water more readily and tend to drift less with the current. Most days, 100–150 g will suffice, but sometimes a 500-g decoy is the only thing capable of reaching the seabed. One or two dropper flies can be good. Small, slender dropper flies are particularly good. Perhaps try adding something fragrant on the end of your tackle such as pieces of herring, garfish or sand worm.

Fish with a decoy and spoon, typically 20–60 g, with a mackerel tackle mounted at the front. Perhaps try fishing for them with a gliding float and a strip of herring. Up to 1–1.5 kg. Mackerel arrive in shoals, so you have to be ready when the shoal swims by.

FLATFISH Flounder, plaice and dap are seabed dwellers, often preferring a gravel bottom. Bait such as sand worm, ragworm and mussel works best. You can find plaice weighing up to 3 kg, flounder up to 2–3 kg and dab up to 1 kg. Use different seabed tackles, including some with differently coloured cones and a variety of spinner blades. Try luminous cones, too. Your tackle box should also contain other tackles of the simple type with a few hooks and a weight at the end. There’s no way of predicting what will work the day you go fishing in Lillebælt. Be ready to change tactics at any time throughout the day and you’ll probably bring home a catch.

TURBOT

from one sea fishing at d an h r ei r own boat. ily try th or from you s Let your fam at o b n io excurs of the local

GARFISH Weighs up to 1 kg. Fish with a slender spoon or decoy. Mount a 6–8 cm line stump with a size 10–12 treble hook instead of the normal treble hook. Or tie a silk thread to the spring ring instead of the hook. Very child-friendly rigging. Alternatively, use a float and pieces of herring affixed to a small, single hook. Up to 1 kg. Use very light tackle, which will catch more and make fishing more fun.

HERRING Herring tackle, spoons or decoys mounted on the end of a leader; widely available for purchase. Up to 0.5 kg.

POLLACK Small decoys or spoons, dropper flies, bait. More pollacks in the Belt in recent years; typically up to 2 kg. Strong fish on casting tackle or light decoy gear.

WHITING Small decoys, spoons, dropper flies. Sand worm or ragworm. They can appear in large numbers at times, with small fish up to 1 kg.

Turbot and brill are seabed dwellers, too. More turbot have been coming through in recent years. Turbot up to 6–7 kg and brill up to 3–4 kg have been caught. Fish with bait such as whole sandeel, strips of herring or garfish on seabed tackle or a gliding float. The latter sits best affixed to the hook. Fish on or slightly above a gravel or sandy seabed.

Catch your supper whilst enjoying Lillebælt from the water.

DINGHY FISHING The coastal angler extends his tidal flats fishing repertoire when he gets a dinghy. When you sail out, you can get to places where the big fish always jump. For dinghy fishing you can use regular coastal fishing tackle, spin or fly fishing tackle. Most types of sea fishing can be practised from a dinghy because you can always find a spot in the Belt that is sheltered from the wind. Examples of good fishing spots include those along the submerged cliffs, marking the boundary between the shallows and deep water. Try fishing over eddies, i.e. where the surface of the water is still. Fishing with a decoy is often worthwhile either at Strib Fyr (lighthouse), the area known locally as “The Green Duck” (a large green buoy opposite the gas terminal at Fredericia harbour) and the submerged cliff opposite the gas terminal. The area around the Old Lillebælt Bridge is also good for decoy fishing for larger cod. Sonar and sea charts are useful for finding the submerged cliffs in Lillebælt – especially if you are fishing from a dinghy here for the first time. Several camp sites in the area have dinghies for hire. They can often recommend the best fishing spots on the day you take to the water in the dinghy.

Use the slipways referred to in the guide.

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS FOR ANGLERS Dinghies must be launched from ramps, as vehicles are generally not permitted on the beaches (exceptions apply). There are good ramps on all the harbours and marinas (at a small charge). A few camp sites have ramps, which you can use if you live on the site. There are popular ramps at: Lyngsodde (GPS: 55.51910, 9.74089), Middelfart harbour (GPS: 55.50835, 9.72167) and a small ramp at Stenderup Hage (GPS: 55.45921, 9.69244).

Some simple written rules apply to fishing in Denmark; you can find these on page 6. There are also a number of unwritten rules that you should respect while fishing. Abiding by these will help you avoid problems with other anglers, landowners

and other people out enjoying nature and the fauna in the area where you go fishing. By abiding by the rules, you will be showing the natural environment and the local people the respect they deserve.

Be considerate of the natural environment. Do not walk across fields or crops; keep to paths and roads. Respect landowners’ boundaries and pass with care.

Always take your litter away with you. Never throw away fishing line, bottles, cans, cigarette butts or litter in the natural environment.

Do not obstruct the beach or any part of it – not even during competitions.

Limit your use of fishing rods. Using more than 2–3 rods tends to be frowned upon.

You must not dig up earthworms in public or private areas without permission. You must not dig up sand worms on bathing beaches.

SAFETY REGULATIONS

Park only in parking spaces. Traffic and parking on private roads are only allowed with the permission of the landowner. Avoid parking on lanes and small public roads, as this can obstruct agricultural machinery and other traffic.

•

A life jacket per person is a legal requirement on any vessel.

•

If you hire or loan a vessel, life jackets must be worn (also a legal requirement). Check the vessel’s safety equipment, e.g. marine distress flare, whistle, extra oars, compass, bailer, etc.

Keep your distance from other anglers while you are fishing. Try to keep moving at all times. Monopolising a reef, promontory, pier or other places is frowned upon. It is bad form to push in ahead of other anglers in spots that they have chosen.

Camping in tents, caravans or motorhomes in car parks, on beaches or in private areas is prohibited. Overnight stays are only allowed on campsites, in official shelters, designated sites for motorhomes and other registered types of accommodation.

Keep only a few of the fish you catch. Gently release the rest. Remember: you are a sports angler pursuing your hobby; you are not a commercial fisherman making your living from it.

You must use a nearby ramp to launch a dinghy. If you want to launch a dinghy from the beach, note that vehicles are not permitted on beaches, except where the signs indicate otherwise. For that reason, we recommend the slipways shown in this guide.

•

Wear your life jacket and remain seated in the boat. Never stand up in the dinghy. Never wear waders in the dinghy.

•

Check the weather forecast at www.dmi.dk before you sail.

•

Never sail in poor weather or dense fog.

•

Let someone know where you will be sailing and for how long you will be gone.

10. If you have been fishing in waters with fish diseases, be sure to disinfect your tackle before using it in Danish waters.

If you are in any doubt about the rules, or how to act, ask the local anglers or enquire at the tackle stores. If you would like to know about fishing in Denmark or join a

club, please contact: The Danish Sports Fishing Association, Skyttevej, DK-7182 Bredsten or visit www.sportsfiskeren.dk 21

Binderup

The maps show numbered fishing spots. On the Fyn side, the numbering is the same as the numbering used by Sea Trout Fyn. Each fishing spot is described briefly with reference to fish species, seasons and things you may need to bear in

mind. The calendar shows fish species and seasons. There is a QR code beneath each description. This refers to more information about the particular fishing spot. The information can be found at www.lillebaelt.dk

Binderup Strand Skamlingsbanken

Mosvig 8

Grønninghoved 02 Strand

Grønninghoved 6 4

LEGEND 18

SEA TROUT GUIDE

Kurkmark

4 6

Bjert Strand

FISHING SPOTS: COAST, HARBOUR AND PIER

Sjølund

Fishing spot

Fishing prohibited 16 September - 15 March

Motorway

Woodland

Coastal fishing spot

Fishing prohibited all year round

Country road

Built-up area

Parking

Fishing prohibited 16 September - 15 January

Other road

Industry

Toilet

Bathymetric depth contours: 2, 4, 6 and 10 m.

Bog

Campsite

Stream

Residential road, lane

Depth in metres

Lake

Overby

Hejls 01

Bathymetric depth interval 5 metres 1

Mid-season for the fish shown

5 km

Trappendal

1:70.000

Peak season for the fish shown

BREDNINGEN 1

Off-season Brabæk

FISHING SPOTS

Hejlsminde

Skovhuse

Sælhage

Brandsø

Aller

JUTLAND

Gravenshoved 2

01. Hejlsminde Bugt Stubbom

Good spring fishing. Winter fishing can be rewarding due to the fresh water flowing out from Hejls Nor. Respect the conservation zone. Some flatfish, notably when fishing from a dinghy. Viviparous eelpout.

Store Anslet Anslet Hage

Favstrup

Lille Anslet

By the sluice in the conservation zone. GPS: 55.36163, 9.59991

Knud

Knudshoved January

Sea trout Flatfish Garfish

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

Fjelstrup Vig Avn

1:70.000

3 km

05. Løverodde

A good, long spot extending several kilometres. If you like, you can fish the whole length of it. There are small reefs and large bands of seaweed to cover.

One of the Lillebælt area’s best bets as a year-round spot, as summer fishing can be excellent too. The point allows fishing at several different water depths.

Garfish in its season.

Garfish in its season. Flatfish on the sandy seabed. There may be coastal cod.

At the end of Fredskovvej. GPS: 55.40892, 9.59665

January

February

Car park at the end of Løveroddevej. GPS: 55.49767, 9.62209

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

Sea trout Garfish

Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish

03. Stenderup Hage

06. Agtrup Vig

Classic Lillebælt coast for sea trout, with lots of superb spots. Like many other Lillebælt spots with deep waters close to land, northbound currents are often best.

Perhaps the best spring spot in Kolding Fjord. Lots of sea trout at times. They enter the cove, which heats up faster than the deeper waters with a current further out into Lillebælt. Stable wade fishing.

Garfish in its season. One of the best spots for coastal cod. Flatfish on patches of sand.

Garfish in its season.

February

March

April

May

June

September

October

November

December

At the end of Mads Kehlets vej. GPS: 55.48866, 9.57389

Parking by the coast before Stenderuphagevej bears left to follow the coast. GPS: 55.459283,9.692376 January

August

July

August

September

October

November

December

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish

Sea trout Garfish

04. Gl. Ålbo

07. Rebæk

Good on a summer’s night. Excellent coastal stretch with deep water close to land. Large fish pass here while migrating. A generous stretch of coast that can be fished all the way past Midtskov and Nørreskov. Some small reefs and spits. If you are walking this section first, remember to cover reefs and spits close to land before you wade through the section. Garfish in its season. Flatfish on the sandy seabed. Good scope for coastal cod, as you can cast your line across the submerged cliffs with up to 20 m of water.

Classic wade fishing for spring fish, where you fish the area out towards Agtrup Vig cove and in towards Kolding. Respect the conservation zone.

August

September

October

November

December

August

September

October

November

December

SEA TROUT GUIDE

02. Mosvig

At the end of Stranden road, Rebæk. GPS: 55.48588, 9.52296

Parking on the gravel road from Løveroddevej between Nørreskov and Midtskov. GPS: 55.479440, 9.641452 January

Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

Sea trout Garfish

Nørre Eltang Kirke

Stenderup

Gudsø

Oddersted

Nørre Bjert

11 3

P P

REBÆK

Skarre 4 Odde 2

Løver Odde

106

Fænø

Nørreskov

Agtrupskov

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

July

August

September

October

November

December

August

September

October

November

December

A good spot in spring with great stretches on both sides of the spit. There are frequently other anglers on the reef, but there are fish elsewhere, too. Garfish in its season.

There is a small car park at the end of Drejensvej. GPS: 55.49735, 9.58387

Midtskov

Strårup

Dalby

January

Bøgehoved Mørkholt

Stenderup Hage

Sønder Bjert

P Sønderskov

Frydenborg

Varmark Flækøjet

Binderup Strand Skamlingsbanken

2 4 6

Bjert Strand

May

June

10. Skærbæk, Skærbæk power plant

Small car park at the end of the gravel road. GPS: 55.51556, 9.60631 January

February

March

April

May

June

July

Sea trout

April

Primarily a winter and spring spot. Warm water used to be discharged from the Skærbæk power plant, but it is now used for district heating. Nevertheless, the water is a little warmer here as it flows out of the channel, and this can attract fish. The fishing can be very good parallel to the stone dike and towards the west around the point. Not much room for lots of anglers here. Note the no entry signs on the grounds of Skærbæk power station.

March

Skartved

Binderup

February

Sea trout Garfish

Gammel Ålbo

Sønder Stenderup

AGTRUP

Kurkmark

April

09. Drejens Odde

Fænø Kalv

Agtrupvig

March

3 8

February

Sea trout

i ld

F ng

d jor

January

Hindsgavl

Flessingen 9

5 7

Skærbækværket

107

10 6

KOLDING

08 Trapholt

Small car park just before Dansk Sygeplejehistorisk Museum (the Danish Museum of Nursing History). GPS: 55.49780, 9.55128

107a

Hønborg

Skærbæk

1 2

November–April. Wading out to fish. Calm waters quite a long way out.

Gudsø Vig 1

08. Hotel Koldingfjord

SEA TROUT GUIDE

Eltang

Taulov

1:70.000

3 km

Gårslev

Bøgeskov Strand

24 10

11. Skærbæk harbour

Possibility of sea trout, especially in spring, but otherwise garfish in its season, and some flatfish.

SEA TROUT GUIDE

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

2 4

Egeskov

Østedgård January

Østerskov

Østerby Vejlby

Kasser Odde

Tr e l d e N æ s

Bøgeskov

jord sF d n Ra

Trelde

Nebbegård Brøndsted

Trelde Klint

Rands

Parking by Havnegrillen. GPS: 55.51307, 9.63020

Vesterskov

December

Sea trout Flatfish Garfish

Egum Stallerup

12. Skærbæk, Strandparken (Børup Sande) Opportunity for summer fishing. Start fishing outside the little restaurant and head east. Actually, a long section that continues for several kilometres, where you can wade out some distance and cast across the submerged cliffs. Some mussel reefs and small stone reefs.

P HYBY LUND

Garfish in its season. Possibility of some small summer cod.

Stovstrup 3

FREDERICIA

Strandparken car park GPS: 55.51174, 9.64513

3 km

1:70.000 30

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

HANNERUP

Sea trout Cod Garfish

P 15

Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish

110

10 6

Røjle Klint

ERRITSØ

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

Strib Røjle Tårup 17

107a

P 107

Snoghøj 24

107b

Katrinebjerg

112

14 May

111

Billeshave

P P

April

Staurshoved

Røjleskov

BROVAD

Public car park opposite the farm. GPS: 55.51769, 9.65427 March

109

SANDDAL

Classic coastal spot with very deep waters. In the autumn, there are often “non-migratory fish” around the bridge at the end of Hagenørvej. If you can face the walk, go past the submerged cliffs and try the area off Damgård. An exciting spot with not too many anglers. Fishing for flatfish can be extremely good beyond the submerged cliffs. Garfish in its season. Flatfish on the sandy seabed. Possibility of cod.

February

gte

13. Hagenør (Børup Skov)

January

Tr a

P P

108 35

Røjle

Brogårde

Klintholm

Båring Vig

Vejlby Fed

Båring Strand

17. Ammoniakhavnen

Can yield sea trout all year round. Northbound currents are best. Large sea trout can be found here. The current can be as fast-flowing as a river. Respect this and don’t wade in too deep. Deep water close by.

Deep water. Try fishing with a float and bait. Garfish, herring, mackerel in their seasons. Cod. Flatfish on patches of sand.

Garfish in its season. Possibility of cod. Excellent flatfish on the seabed.

Small car park just before the harbour. GPS: 55.52320, 9.74147

Small car park at the end of Sønderskovvej under the pylon. GPS: 55.52698, 9.69065

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

February

March

April

May

June

July

Cod Flatfish Garfish Mackerel Herring

15. Snoghøj

18. Erritsø

Deep water close to the coast. You won’t catch many sea trout here, but as with Gals Klint, you can reach out to the shoals of herring, where the large sea trout will be. Note that several of the small jetties are private and loitering and fishing are not allowed.

Typical Lillebælt coast with wade fishing. Cast your line across the submerged cliffs into deep waters. Excellent sea trout spot most of the year.

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

Sea trout Cod Garfish Mackerel

Sea trout Flatfish Garfish

16. Lyngs Odde–New Lillebælt bridge

19. Fredericia Harbour

Deep water close to the coast. Wade fishing on both sides of the car park and around the point. Possibility of large trout.

Classic harbour spot for seasonal fishing – cod and flatfish. Very deep waters and a strong current. Exciting fishing waters. Perhaps the best spot in Lillebælt for mackerel. A sure spot for herring in the season. Keep an eye open for no-fishing signs. Watch out for boats and avoid fishing too close to them.

Garfish in its season. Occasional cod. Large car park. A very popular place for launching dinghies from the ramp, so there will often be lots of cars and lots of people here. GPS: 55.51938, 9.74096

January Sea trout Garfish

February

March

April

May

June

September

October

November

December

At the end of Ekkodalen. GPS: 55.53537, 9.73333

At the end of Gl. Færgevej. GPS: 55.51989, 9.71557

February

August

Garfish in its season. Flatfish on the sandy seabed.

Garfish in its season. Possibility of mackerel. Good possibilities for cod.

January

Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish

July

August

September

October

November

December

August

September

October

November

December

SEA TROUT GUIDE

14. Sønderskov

Cod and flatfish on seabed tackle. This can be a good place for cod. In the harbour. GPS: 55.55848, 9.75794 August

September

October

November

December

January Cod Flatfish Garfish Mackerel Herring

February

March

April

May

June

July

23. Kulvig

A great spot with some reefs and bands of seaweed. The water can be murky in an onshore wind with clay being flushed out of the submerged cliffs.

March–May, October–November. Occasional good winter fishing. Wading out to fish. Fine coast. Garfish in its season.

Garfish in its season. Flatfish on the many sandy beds. Possibility of cod most of the year, but not in summer.

Parking by Trelde Næs. GPS: 55.62337, 9.84547

Near Surfklubben (surfing club). GPS: 55.58044, 9.78611 January

February

March

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Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish

Sea trout Garfish

21. Østerskov

24. Trelde Klint

This spot is accessible on foot from Trelde Næs. Superb coast with deep waters, a varied rocky seabed and bands of seaweed. A pretty area with good fishing. Try a summer’s night on the small reefs.

March–May, September–November. Lots of excellent spots. There can sometimes be small fish in spring.

March

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Parking by Trelde Næs. GPS: 55.62337, 9.84547

At Trelde Næs car park. GPS: 55.62337, 9.84547 February

August

Garfish in its season.

Garfish in its season. There can be large flatfish on the sandy beds. Occasional cod.

January

July

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Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish

January

February

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April

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SEA TROUT GUIDE

20. Vesterskov

Sea trout Garfish

22. Trelde Næs One of the most popular spots, and for good reason: a lot of fish are caught here! There are strong possibilities on the reef, especially in the summer months, and a summer night on Trelde Næs is brilliant. Good current. Be sure to fish both sides of the reef. These are superb spots. Garfish in its season. Occasional cod. A lot of dinghy anglers have caught turbot on the gravel seabed. Parking spaces. GPS: 55.62337, 9.84547 January

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Sea trout Cod Garfish

104

Nørre Aaby

Gamborg

rg F

100. Wedellsborg Hoved

jor d

Indslev

Viby

Svinø

Bringvad

On the south side by Sdr. Åby Strand. GPS: 55.35066, 9.84181

Rolund

Ronæs

Gadstrup January

Fønsskov Ronæs 2

Udby Føns Vang

103 Sparretorn

Føns

4 6 10

102

Elles

Ørslev

Rud

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December

The innermost and northern part of Wedellsborg, but with slightly different conditions, because the first and innermost stretch allows wade fishing far out from land. Further out, the water is deeper, and the sea trout can usually be found close to the coast, the same as other parts of Wedellsborg.

Balslev

Ålehoved

March

101. Husby Strand

Føns Vig

February

Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish

Mosegård

Garfish in May and June. Flatfish on the sandy expanses some distance out, and from a dinghy.

SEA TROUT GUIDE

105

Many local sea trout anglers from Fyn only fish at Wedellsborg, and they catch lots of sea trout every year. Wedellsborg Hoved is worth a try at any time of year. Depending on the wind direction, you can fish on the north, south or west side. Only a very strong westerly wind will spoil your chances. Garfish in May. Possibility of cod.

On Husby Strandvej by the beach. GPS: 55.37913, 9.83116

4 6 10

January

Ørslev Tybrind

February

March

April

May

June

July

Sea trout Flatfish Garfish

Bjerge

Tybrind 3

Our thanks to Sea Trout Fyn – www.seatrout.dk – for the sea trout description

Vig

101

Hygind

Eskør

Håre

Wedellsborg Hoved Wedellsborg Sælhage

Husby Sønder Åby

2 4 6 10

1:70.000

Tanderup

100

3 km

Emtekær

105. Svinø

Both the south and north sides of Ålehoved are worth a visit, but it is a long walk due to poor parking options close to the actual headland. You can wade fish along the sides. Out at the tip, the water is deep, and you can fish from land. Possibility of large sea trout.

Good wade fishing in winter along the south side of Svinø and further inside Ellebæk Vig cove. The seabed may well look rather grey and boring, but that is exactly the type of seabed the sea trout seek out in winter. Note that Ellebæk Vig cove can be particularly busy with anglers.

Garfish in May. Possibility of cod out at the tip. Flatfish at several locations, especially from a dinghy.

On the far side of Svinø, turbot have been caught from dinghies. Garfish on the south side of Svinø in May. Possibility of grey mullet.

At the side of the road by Føns Vig cove. GPS coordinates: 55.41121, 9.80338 January

February

March

April

By the causeway southeast of the fishing stretch. GPS: 55.45129, 9.80367 May

June

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Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish

Sea trout Garfish

103. Føns

106. Fænøsund

The south side of Føns is a very long, exciting stretch for sea trout, but due to difficult access conditions, you will rarely find many anglers here. If you are up for a nice walk to almost virgin sea trout spots, Føns is the place for you.

A different spot, where you fish directly from the very deep waters with a strong current running between Fyn and Fænø. A good, readily accessible spot for summer fishing.

Garfish in May. Perhaps cod. Possibility of flatfish at several points.

Garfish in May. Possibility of cod. Take care not to fish too close to the many traps that are often placed close to the coast by the small ferry berth.

At Føns Strand. GPS: 55.41540, 9.82710 January

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By the ferry berth on Oddevej. GPS: 55.49431, 9.70369 March

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Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish

Sea trout Cod Garfish

104. Fønsskov Odde

107. Gals Klint

A seldom frequented spot. Very deep and a strong current around the actual tip, where there is a long reef. An obvious choice in summer, but there are possibilities here in late spring, too. Possibility of cod in the deep water. Possibility of flatfish where there is a gravel seabed. Incidentally, the fish on the front of the guide was caught at this spot.

Again, a deep spot with a strong current. This makes it an obvious choice for summer fishing, but large sea trout can be caught near Gals Klint all year round. This is one of the few spots on Fyn where coastal fishing from the shore can reach the large sea trout as they migrate along the outer edge of Lillebælt’s shoals of herring.

SEA TROUT GUIDE

102. Ålehoved

Garfish in May. Possibility of cod and mackerel. Flatfish at several spots.

At the end of the road, by the Private sign. GPS: 55.46110, 9.73671

By Gals Klint Camping GPS: 55.51715, 9.68169 January

Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish

February

March

April

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January Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish

February

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P 15

g Tr a

3 27

ten

110

6 4

Røjle Klint

ERRITSØ

111

Katrinebjerg

By Gals Klint Camping or by Badeanstalten. GPS: 55.51715, 9.68169 55.51672, 9.69872

Billeshave

Strib Røjle Tårup

112

14 107a

Snoghøj

P P

108

107b

Fænø

Båring Vig

Vejlby Fed

Båring Strand

MIDDELFART

Vejlby

Staurby

Kustrup

Aulby 106

January

Klintholm

Brogårde

Røjle

Hindsgavl

From Gals Klint to the Old Lillebælt Bridge, the water is very deep, with a strong current close to land. Possibility of sea trout in the summer months, as well as cod, viviparous eelpout and flatfish. Garfish in May.

107a. Gals Klint – the old Lillebælt bridge

TEGLGÅRD

Blanke

February

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Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish

107b. Middelfart Harbour Classic spot for pier fishing for garfish and mackerel. Possibility of cod, viviparous eelpout and flatfish. Very deep waters. There can be a lot of anglers here. Keep your distance from other anglers and, especially, non-anglers. Respect no-fishing signs. In the harbour GPS: 55.50766, 9.72729

Voldby

SKRILLINGE

SEA TROUT GUIDE

BROVAD

Staurshoved

Røjleskov

109

SANDDAL

Lillebælt Nord

Roerslev

Kavslunde

February

March

April

May

June

Lillebælt Syd 6

Svenstrup

January Cod Flatfish Garfish Mackerel Herring

108. New Lillebælt Bridge

Bøgehoved 03

rg F

jor d

Gamborg Vejlby Fed

105

10 6

Frydenborg

113

PSvinø

Skovs Højrup

Fønsskov

Bro

Garfish in May. Possibility of mackerel and cod. In the public area beneath the bridge. GPS: 55.51732, 9.75773

Viby

Båring Mark

Blanke

1:70.000

Nørre Aaby

Conditions are somewhat similar to Gals Klint, but you have to wade out some distance south of the bridge before reaching the deep channel.

January

Ronæs

3 km

Varberg Strand

Varbjerg

Båring Strand

Stenderup Hage

Båring Vig

114

104

Båring Ronæs

Rolund Skovs Højrup

Gadstrup Brenderup

Sea trout Cod Garfish Mackerel

February

March

April

May

June

July

112. Vejlbyskov

Very strong current off the lighthouse. Majestic summer spot, but opportunities all year round. A good choice if you are after big sea trout. Good casual catches of cod, and plenty of garfish in their season.

Rather more wading out to sand bars to fish compared to Stavrshoved. Good in the winter months; less certain in summer. Garfish in its season. Flatfish best from a dinghy.

Possibility of mackerel in their season. East of the lighthouse, there are excellent spots for flatfish.

Drive past the holiday cottages to the old drying ground. Park here. GPS: 55.52392, 9.84968

Public car park north of the lighthouse. GPS: 55.54350, 9.76120 January

February

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Sea trout Flatfish Garfish

110. Røjle Klint

113. Båring Strand

A good, stable stretch that’s always worth a try if the wind is southerly. A good stretch for fly fishing.

One of the best winter and spring spots on northern Fyn. Be aware of the autumn conservation zone east of the campsite.

Opportunity for garfish in their season and flatfish at a number of spots.

Garfish in its season. Flatfish best from a dinghy.

Public car park by the FDF scout hut. Follow the path through the conservation area to the beach. GPS: 55.55159, 9.81643

January

February

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On Molevej. GPS: 55.51033, 9.88248

June

July

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January

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June

Sea trout Flatfish Garfish

111. Stavrshoved

114. Varbjerg Strand

Not to be confused with the tip north of Kerteminde of the same name. A large, rocky coast; rarely overrun. Garfish in its season. Flatfish at several spots, with the possibility of large flounder, 1–3 kg.

Wade out to fish, as for Båring Strand. Again, pay attention to the conservation zones towards the south and north here. Mainly small fish, but there are some surprises every autumn with a few very large sea trout.

Follow the signs to Kasmose woods. Parking by Kasmosen in the public area. GPS: 55.55300, 9.83189

January Sea trout Flatfish Garfish

January

Sea trout Cod Flatfish Garfish Mackerel

February

March

SEA TROUT GUIDE

109. Strib Fyr (lighthouse)

Garfish in its season. Possibility of flatfish. Near Varbjerg Harbour. GPS: 55.51539, 9.95042 April

May

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Sea trout Flatfish Garfish

YOUNG ANGLERS

PRACTICAL INFORMATION WEATHER FORECAST AND WATER LEVEL

Lillebælt is the place where the whole family can go fishing. Lillebælt offers lots of possibilities where the kids can try their hand at various kinds of fishing. Get on one of the local excursion boats, or hire a dinghy so the family can all go fishing together. The children can also help to catch crabs, experience life in the shallows, and much more besides.

Always check the weather forecast before you take to the water – e.g. at www.dmi.dk or www.seatrout.dk Keep an eye on the water level as well as the times for high tide and low tide at www.dmi.dk/hav

Have a look at all the activities here: www.lillebaelt-booking.dk

DINGHY AND BOAT HIRE; EXCURSION BOATS

PUT & TAKE AND RIVER FISHING

Several campsites hire out dinghies and boats, but these can also be hired in marinas and harbours.

You can also take your family along to one of Lillebælt’s Put & Take lakes. There is plenty of scope for catching a variety of trout here. You don’t need a fishing licence to fish in Put & Take lakes. Fishing in Put & Take lakes is for all the family, and some places have children’s lakes, where a child’s inner angler can come alive! The river Kolding Å also offers good fishing for pike, salmon and trout. You can find information about Lillebælt’s Put & Take lakes and river fishing at www.lillebaelt.dk In Fredericia, you can fish in the moat of Fredericia Vold ramparts. You can catch pike and carp here.

Get up close to some of the sea creatures as the nature guides explain about life in the shallows. For more details, visit www.lillebaelt-booking.dk

TOURIST INFORMATION

s where you

Take lake lots of Put & as h lt æ eb Lill g. family fishin your whole

Note that a number of excursion boats also offer Whale Watching, i.e. special trips to see porpoises, especially in the summer months when you can virtually guarantee you’ll see these little whales. Some boats are lovely old vessels, while others are fast, modern boats. Lillebælt has the highest concentration of porpoises in the world. Sometimes the porpoises come right up close to the dinghies and boats to see what’s going on.

www.lillebaelt.dk www.lillebaelt-booking.dk

www.visitfredericia.dk VisitFredericia Prinsessegade 27 DK-7000 Fredericia

www.visitmiddelfart.dk VisitMiddelfart Havnegade 6 DK-5500 Middelfart

www.visitchristiansfeld.dk VisitChristiansfeld Nørregade 14 DK-6070 Christiansfeld

www.visitkolding.dk VisitKolding Aksel Torv 8 DK-6000 Kolding

Tourist and centre information Kolding Storcenter Skovvangen 42 DK-6000 Kolding

can take

Take all the family on one of the excursion boats, and see the delight in your children’s eyes when they hook a fish.

Excursion boats sail on Lillebælt from places including Fredericia, Kolding, Middelfart and Skærbæk. Check departure times and bookings here: www.lillebaelt.dk or here: www.lillebaelt-booking.dk

Try combining sea kayaking with fishing. Like dinghy fishing, kayak fishing gives you added scope for reaching deeper waters.

ISBN: 978-87-996933-5-1